DSHS Issues Flood Precautions

News Release June 24, 2005

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is issuing the following flood-related health precautions should Hurricane Emily cause flooding.

Water:

Watch for news media announcements about the safety of public drinking water supplies. Follow "boil water" alerts that may be issued by local water utilities or the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Do not drink water from unknown sources.

Persons under boil water alerts and persons with private wells that may have been contaminated by flood water should use only bottled, boiled or treated water until water has been tested and found safe.

If you boil water for drinking purposes, allow it to boil for at least one minute. Water also may be disinfected with chlorine or iodine (follow package directions) or with ordinary household bleach -- one-eighth teaspoon (about eight drops) per gallon of water. Sterilize water containers and drinking utensils with a solution of household bleach.

Food:

Do not eat food that has been in contact with flood water.

If electricity has been off, refrigerated food may have spoiled. Discard any food that has been at room temperature for more than two hours or if it has an unusual odor or color. Thawed food from freezers may be safe for consumption or refreezing if it is still partially frozen or is "refrigerator cold."

Babies on formula should be given ready-to-feed formula or powdered formula prepared with bottled drinking water.

Wash hands with soap and disinfected water before eating or handling food, after clean-up work and after handling flood water-contaminated items.

Environmental Hazards:

Snakes and other wildlife may seek shelter in trees, homes and vehicles. Bats are often injured in heavy rains and winds. Do not handle these or any other bats. Seek immediate treatment if bitten or injured by an animal. Beware of displaced pets.

Return home in daylight for best visibility and to avoid using unsafe power sources. Do not use lanterns or torches until after the premises are safe from gas leaks.

Standing water after floods is a breeding place for mosquitoes. Drain all standing water and empty water from outdoor items such as old tires, cans and flower pot bases. Protect yourself with an appropriate insect repellent.

Let no one re-enter your home while flooded unless the main electrical switch has been turned off.

Wear shoes in post-flood areas to reduce the chances of punctures or cuts from nails and other sharp contaminated objects.

Medical:

Persons with puncture wounds or cuts exposed to flood water could be at risk of contracting tetanus and may need to have a tetanus shot to prevent infection.

General:

Do not allow children to play in or near flood water or storm drains.

Disinfect all furniture, woodwork and other household surfaces in homes that have flooded.